Soon, state assemblypersons would not be able to fool around in the Penang legislative assembly as their antics would be monitored closely and evaluated by a group of journalists.

The assembly, via the speaker's office, has requested for the help of the media to evaluate and monitor the performance of its state representatives in the coming session, slated for end of November.

NONEHouse speaker Law Choo Kiang (right) said the media had been roped into the project as they are more knowledgeable about the situation within the assembly.

"You (the media) are the fourth estate and your readers are also interested to know the performances of their YBs (representatives).

"Their evaluation would be more effective and fair if  done with the help of the media instead of political parties.

"This would make proceedings in the Dewan more transparent, and make the YBs more focussed and professional...and it is critical for check and balance especially when we (Pakatan Rakyat) have two-thirds majority," Law said in a press conference today.

However, Law, who is also Bukit Tambun assemblyperson, said a permanent journalist from each organisation is needed to monitor the assembly for consistent results.

He added that the evaluation is only focussed on the state assemblypersons’ performance in the legislative assembly and not on their work in the field or in their respective constituencies.

Journalists to suggest format of evaluation

Not to be exempted, he stressed that his position as speaker would also be monitored and evaluated.

Law said the people’s expectations have become increasingly demanding, citing the example of Pakatan representatives who were absent from the debate and vote-taking on the controversial 1959 Preventive Crime Act (amendment and extension) on Oct 2.

The Act, which allows for detention without trial for suspected criminals, was "bulldozed" through Parliament and passed after midnight with only 66 of the opposition against 115 of BN's, in attendance.

Meanwhile, Law further requested reporters to provide suggestions on the format and categories of evaluation.

So far, the group is looking at about five categories for evaluation - attendance, attitude, preparedness, debate relevant to topic and participation in session.

NONE"After we tabulate the results, we can surely see the difference in attitude and performance of the YBs," said Law, who is also state PKR deputy chairperson.

Accompanying Law at the event is deputy speaker and PKR's Sungai Bakap assemblyperson Maktar Shapee (left in photo).

However, state newspapers and party organs such as Buletin Mutiara, Rocket, Suara Keadilan and Harakah are not invited for the task.

Twenty-four media organisations were invited and 12 turned up for the meeting today.